The University of the Philippines Los Baños Research Ethics Board (UPLB REB) conducted its General Assembly and Orientation last 11 December 2023.

In his welcome remarks, Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension Nathaniel C. Bantayan highlighted the importance of having an ethics review and approval for research projects of the University’s faculty, REPS, and students. VC Bantayan also expressed his gratitude to the current and incoming scientist and lay members for heeding the call to serve the University through the UPLB REB.

The new logo of the UPLB REB was launched during the event. Designed by Asst. Prof. Frederick Precillas of the UPLB Department of Social Sciences, the UPLB REB logo features two symbolic inscriptions: (1) the ambigram of “UP” formed by two outstretched hands that signifies a tight collaboration between (UP) researchers and (the Filipino people as) participants, and (2) the Filipino term “saliksik” written in Baybayin which underscores the ethos of scientific research for and by Filipinos. 

Mr. Jeph Roxy M. Macaraig, University Research Associate, presented the accomplishments and challenges during the 1st year of implementation of the UPLB REB. Points for improvement in the board’s procedures were also discussed during his presentation. 

Assoc. Prof. Mark Oliver S. Llangco, UPLB REB Co-chair, discussed the roles and responsibilities of the scientist, lay, and non-affiliated members. In his talk, Dr. Llangco further emphasized the board’s commitment to promote responsible conduct of research by providing timely, independent, and competent review of research protocols involving human participants.

UPLB REB Chair Assoc. Prof. Marie Faye R. Nguyen-Orca closed the morning session with her lecture on the UPLB REB’s Standard Operating Procedures. Dr. Nguyen-Orca also welcomed the new members and presented the composition of the UPLB REB for 2024. With the recruitment of new scientist and lay members, the UPLB REB will now have 6 review panels. The UPLB REB is committed to providing a more effective and efficient review process this 2024.

The afternoon session began with the lectures of Assoc. Prof. Girlie Nora A. Abrigo and Assoc. Prof. Maricel T. Villamayor. Having served the UPLB REB as scientist members since January 2023, they shared with the members their practices and experiences in reviewing research protocols. The UPLB REB Review Panel Heads – Assoc. Prof. Angelina D.R. Felix (IHNF-CHE), Dr. Thaddeus P. Lawas (SESAM), and University Researcher Ms. Blanquita R. Pantoja (CISC-CPAf) – discussed the guidelines and their experiences in facilitating and conducting a panel meeting. 

The event was capped off with a forum where all members discussed opportunities that the board may explore to further improve its services. Looking forward to 2024, the UPLB REB reaffirms its commitment to upholding ethical standards in the conduct of research involving human participants.

Photo Credits: UPLB Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension